Living with Wildlife and Preventing Wildlife Conflicts
Florida's wildlife and human populations encounter each other more than ever before, and the circumstances which create conflicts with wildlife are as varied as the environment of Florida itself. As people develop more open space and wildlife habitat is reduced and fragmented, conditions are often created which attract wildlife. Such contacts between people and wildlife often result in conflicts.
Most wildlife conflicts can be resolved by making simple changes such as removing attractants. Understanding wildlife behavior can help you appreciate and coexist while reducing negative impacts.
Wildlife conflicts may result in the perception that all wildlife is a nuisance without recognition of beneficial values. An unpleasant experience may cause such a perception, particularly among people who have few encounters with wildlife.
Remember that removing one animal may serve to open up territory for others to move in. Consider making simple accommodations to avoid wildlife conflicts so you can enjoy the wildlife in your backyard.
FWC's Wildlife Assistance Program: Helping Resolve Conflicts with Wildlife
The FWC's Wildlife Assistance Biologists work with individuals and communities experiencing conflicts with wildlife to find sustainable resolutions and to develop strategies to coexist with native wildlife.
If you are experiencing conflicts with wildlife and you know which species is responsible, you may visit the FWC Species Profile for additional assistance and information. If you are unsure what animal may be causing the conflict or damage, or would prefer to speak directly with FWC Wildlife Assistance staff, please call your FWC Regional Office to speak with a biologist or email AskFWC.
Report sick or injured wildlife by contacting a local wildlife rehabilitator or calling the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline.
FWC Wildlife Assistance Biologists are available to assist you with alternative, non-lethal solutions to resolving human-wildlife conflicts, and can be reached at your local FWC Regional Office.
Trapping and relocating wildlife should be a last resort and only when all other measures have failed and an animal meets the nuisance criteria. Removing or killing wildlife to resolve conflict should be carefully considered, with care taken to target the individual causing damage. Complete eradication of a native species from a property is not recommended and is generally an ineffective method to address conflict.
For assistance with wildlife removal, you may contact a nuisance wildlife control operator. Before removing wildlife, please review the taking nuisance wildlife regulations.
Visit our wildlife health page for more information on wildlife disease, how to report sick wildlife and mortality events and more.